EF’s Underdogs: JoAnn Lee interview

This week our Underdog is a country singer from Austin Texas, JoAnna Lee. Her current single, The Real Thing was written in her current home, where her music has attracted the attention of multi-platinum selling producers, including Dwight Baker.

JoAnna is currently signed to Cutmore records, and is gaining notable play on US Radio Stations, with her sight now set on the UK. I speak to her to discuss her music and creative process. Keep reading for more.

How are you today?

I’m doing great!

How would you best describe your music?

My music is very easy on the ears, and holds messages that everyone can relate to. I truly sing and write from the soul, and so that’s what the listeners are going to hear, a soulful singer/songwriter.

Could you tell me a bit about your single (The Real Thing)?

I wrote this song at the beginning of a new romance, and was inspired to write about the feeling you get when love is new and how most people will ask themselves Is It the Real Thing?

Could you describe your writing process?

I usually start with a feeling/emotion, or a subject that’s been on my heart, and from there is where the melody gets created in my head. I try to always start with the hook/chorus and then work my way to fill in the rest of the song.

How did you first get into music?

I was fortunately born into a very musical family, and so music was something that was always around me from the time I was born. This played a major role in my life, and once I discovered I could sing, I got nothing but encouragement from my family and peers and that’s when I knew I had something special to share with others.

What inspires you?

So many things inspire me…. But what inspires me most is seeing people around me and in life who overcome any obstacle, have great attitudes and let nothing get in the way of their happiness.

Where can people find your music?

The single The Real Thing is available on all digital platforms, and my album ”So Free” will be released September 22nd, the physical album can be purchased on Amazon.com

Where can people see you live?

I was recently in the UK, hoping to be back very soon to play more shows. In the meantime it will just be local shows in America until the album comes out.

What or who are you listening to at the moment?

I’ve been really digging this artist by the name of Will Heard… So much soul and power in his voice. I’m one of those people who once I find something new I like, I listen to it over and over again until I’m sick of it.

What are your guilty pleasures?

Wine and sweets…. I think it helps the writing process.

You can watch JoAnna Lee’s video for The Real Thing below:

The Real Thing is out now via Cutmore Records /Cutmore Entertainment. The debut album, So Free will be released in the UK on 22nd September.